Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is a colorless and flammable liquid chemical with the molecular formula CH3OH. It is used as a feedstock for the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and other chemicals, as well as a solvent in various applications such as paints, varnishes, and antifreeze. Methanol is also used as a fuel in some vehicles and industrial processes.
Methanol is produced in a three stage process consisting of Reforming, Compression, and Distillation. In the first step, natural gas is combined with steam, under heat, to produce synthesis gas which consists of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. In step two, this synthesis gas is pressurized (compressed) and reacted to form methanol. In the third stage, the liquid mixture is heated to separate the components. The resulting vapour is then cooled and condensed to provide pure methanol.
